Pharmacology Antiparkinson Drugs

Questions and Answers

Levodopa is used as treatment for Parkinson's disease primarily acting as a replacement neurotransmitter.

True

A patient receiving a dopaminergic agent complains of nausea, vomiting, and dysphagia. Which nursing diagnosis would be most appropriate for this patient?

Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements (correct)

Deficient knowledge

Risk for injury

Impaired urinary elimination

A patient has been prescribed an anticholinergic agent for treatment of Parkinson-related symptoms. What patient education should be provided?

Move to a warm climate to decrease symptoms.

Void before taking the medication. (correct)

Do not take any over-the-counter sleep aids.

Enroll in an exercise class at the senior center.

Which of the following statements by the nurse addresses the chronic nature of these diseases and the relevant drug therapies?

Drugs do not cure these disorders; they instead enhance quality of life. Signup and view all the answers

A client is describing the following symptoms to a nurse. 'I just can't keep my legs still. They always need to be moving and it is keeping me up at night.' What term is used for these symptoms?

Restless leg syndrome Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with Parkinson disease. Which is the correct response by the nurse regarding carbidopa-levodopa?

Carbidopa-levodopa increases the activity of dopamine in your body, which will decrease your symptoms. Signup and view all the answers

Based on the symptoms described, what do you suspect the patient is suffering from?

Parkinson's disease Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following drugs is classified as a dopaminergic agent that treats Parkinsonism?

Carbidopa (Lodosyn) Signup and view all the answers

The symptoms of parkinsonism are caused by the depletion of dopamine in which of the following?

Central nervous system Signup and view all the answers

What chronic illness would be a contraindication to the use of carbidopa-levodopa?

Mr. Adams has undiagnosed skin lesions on his face and arms. Signup and view all the answers

The nurse should emphasize the need for the patient and her husband to monitor for any sudden increase in what as a possible adverse effect of carbidopa-levodopa?

Involuntary movements Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Levodopa and Dopaminergic Agents

Levodopa acts as a replacement neurotransmitter in Parkinson's disease treatment.
Dopaminergic agents can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and dysphagia, leading to a nursing diagnosis of imbalanced nutrition.

Anticholinergic Agents

Anticholinergic agents are prescribed for Parkinson's symptoms; patients should void before taking the medication for optimal effect.

Chronic Nature of Parkinson's Disease

Drug therapy for movement disorders enhances quality of life but does not provide a cure.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Symptoms like an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, especially at night, are indicative of restless leg syndrome.

Carbidopa-Levodopa Explanation

Carbidopa-levodopa increases dopamine activity in the body, reducing Parkinson's symptoms.

Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis

Tremors, particularly a pill-rolling motion, combined with a history of head injuries, suggest Parkinson's disease.

Dopaminergic Agents

Carbidopa (Lodosyn) is identified as a dopaminergic agent that supplements dopamine in the brain.

Dopamine Depletion

Symptoms of parkinsonism arise from dopamine depletion in the central nervous system.

Contraindications for Carbidopa-Levodopa

Undiagnosed skin lesions are a contraindication for carbidopa-levodopa use due to potential complications.

Monitoring Adverse Effects

Patients and caregivers should monitor for sudden increases in involuntary movements when using carbidopa-levodopa.

Description

Test your knowledge on antiparkinson drugs with these flashcards. Each card provides crucial information about treatments, side effects, and nursing diagnoses related to Parkinson's disease. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals looking to reinforce their understanding.